When Rafiel related the news that Maian had saved her team from the jaws of defeat by using an – until then – unknown galdr, Soren turned several shades paler. At the end of his report, Rafiel mused that she must have written it herself, as he'd never heard of a "Galdr of Death" before, and herons lacked the ability to kill others.
"Your brother's team, how did they react?", Soren demanded as soon as Rafiel had finished speaking.
"Reyson wasn't very specific", the prince replied placidly. "But I am certain that, had there been an altercation, he would have mentioned it. He did mention that both Senator Maian's guard Nala and the prime minister had been aware of her true nature. And no-one in their right mind would want to take on a dragon – and make an enemy of the most powerful man in the Empire."
"That makes sense", Soren conceded. "Still. Kindly let the Hawk Army know that I will personally shred every single person who dares to mistreat her to pieces."
Rafiel was about to respond, a puzzled expression on his face, when he stilled, realisation dawning visibly on his face. Ike tensed and shot the prince a warning glare, but he needn't have worried – Rafiel gave Soren a benign smile and assured him that he would take care of it.
Soren turned on his heel and marched away, the others parting to make way for him.
"That was – unexpected", Titania observed with a frown, eyeing the cloud of dust their strategist had kicked up.
"Is that why she didn't go insane when she picked up the medallion back at Melior Castle?", Mist asked almost at the same time.
"Most likely", Ike replied. "It would also explain why she was among the people who passed out during the last battle against Daein."
"Soren sure got worked up there", Boyd observed. "Never thought he had it in him. D'you think he fancies her?"
He wriggled his eyebrows.
"I highly doubt it", Ike replied dryly. "Even after all the time he's spent with the company, I'm still his only friend, and he's never been interested in getting closer with anyone else. While it's true that he's been hanging out with Maian a lot during our travels, that was mostly because they have – common interests. Soren told me that Maian became his teacher, in a way."
Ike didn't particularly like being dishonest with his fellow mercenaries, but Soren hadn't given him permission to share his secret – hell, it was a miracle they still appeared to be in the dark about this given Soren's rather unusual behaviour.
He was also extremely grateful that Rafiel hadn't said anything.
Shinon muttered something under his breath, and promptly got clubbed over the head by Boyd.
"Hey!", the archer snapped, nursing his head.
"I suggest you stop spewing racist crap if you want to keep that ugly head of yours", Boyd retorted. "You 'eard Soren. And I doubt Nala would let you get away with disrespecting her mistress, either."
"And keep in mind that Maian can read minds", Ike added. "Perhaps you should stay far away from her in the future."
"She can do that?", Oscar asked incredulously.
"Yeah. She's half heron, after all. Now, enough talking. We need to get moving again. Get in formation; I'll go look for Soren."
Ike took off in the direction his strategist had left in, and soon found him pacing along the edge of a cliff.
"Soren? Are you all right?"
"No, I'm not", the mage snapped, not pausing in his pacing. "What was she thinking?! She could have got herself killed! It's a miracle the others didn't immediately turn on her."
"They'd have been pretty ungrateful to do so, given how she'd just saved their hides", Ike pointed out.
Soren snorted. "Like that's ever stopped anyone before!"
"Let's not forget the fact that Maian had been travelling with the Laguz Alliance for a while, and that she personally saved Elincia's life. And Reyson's grown very fond of her, too. At the very least, I'm positive that these two would have spoken on her behalf, and Maian probably knew this, too. She took a risk, sure, but, as Rafiel pointed out, she also had two extremely powerful people backing her up. Powerful in very different ways, I might add. Things could have gone south for the Hawk Army very quickly, had they decided to turn on her."
Soren let out a weary sigh. "I do know that, rationally. It's just that – she was gambling with her own life to save people whom she owed nothing! They weren't even her friends – well, with maybe the exception of Reyson. I don't understand why she would do that."
"Some people will put the well-being of others before their own", Ike replied softly. "I know you don't, and it's fine if you don't understand her motivations nor agree with her actions, but that's how things are."
"It's stupid! One should always prioritise one's own survival first and foremost!"
"That's not true, and you know it", Ike chided. "Otherwise, you would have sacrificed our comrades, instead of working out strategies to make sure everyone faced the smallest risk possible, or adjusted strategies mid-battle so no-one would be left to die. I know these survival instincts are deeply ingrained into your very being, but I also know that you've learned to look beyond that. Maian did the same thing you do – she changed her strategy to make sure everyone would make it out alive."
"With the minor difference that it might have cost her own life."
"True, but you know as well as I do that no strategy is perfect, and there is always room for error. I bet there were moments during our campaign where one such change of tactics placed you in more imminent danger than before."
Soren scowled, but conceded the point after some deliberation. He stopped pacing, and wrapped his arms around himself.
"I was scared, Ike. Maian – she's been so nice to me, the same way you were, way back. No-one's ever treated me like that before. Your father, he just took me in out of pity after I claimed to know you – he was probably ashamed that you didn't seem to recall – and wanted to avoid making a scene. And picking up strays was kind of what he did."
Ike couldn't disagree with the last part, but he did disagree with pity having been his father's motivation for allowing Soren to join them. It had been kindness instead. However, Soren had built such tall walls around himself, he probably failed to recognise it for what it was. Most of the members of the Greil Mercenaries had been kind to him, or at least, they had tried – for Soren had not made it easy. Even now, many years later, he was still blunt and abrasive.
"The thing is – I've avoided forming attachments to any of the others", Soren went on. "You were the only person I ever cared about, the reason I was even there. Geographically speaking. And then, I let in Maian. Started caring about her, too."
"Which is probably why you got so worked up", Ike explained. "It's scary, the thought of losing someone you care about. How do you think I feel every time Mist rides into battle alongside us? I know she's capable – I've made sure of that myself – but that fear, it lingers. She's all that's left of our family. The thought of losing her, too, scares me."
Soren looked away and fiddled with the sleeves of his coat.
"Thanks for listening, Ike, and for sharing your thoughts with me, I appreciate it. I feel a little better now."
"Glad to hear that. Want a hug?"
Soren visibly shuddered. "No. But you may clap me on the shoulder. Gently."
Ike let out a chuckle and beckoned for Soren to come closer. He gently patted his shoulder a couple of times as they made their way back to the road.
As the Greil Army passed into the Duchy of Tanas, they were caught in a sudden downpour. Remembering their stay in Begnion three years ago, Ike suggested using the duke's deserted villa as shelter.
As soon as they were inside, people picked out rooms to sleep in, and lit as many fires as they could, so they could dry their clothes, equipment, fur, and feathers. As soon as everyone was wearing reasonably dry clothing, they gathered in the mansion's kitchen for supper.
"This is great!", Mist exulted. "I can't remember the last time we got to stay indoors. I guess we can be thankful for the rain."
"Yeah", Ike replied. "The decorations might be a bit – overdone, but the beds will be warm and dry. I'm glad I remembered this mansion was here."
"Presumably we're the first ones to set foot in here after Oliver was posthumously found guilty of trading in heron slaves", Soren added. "I understand that the senate confiscated his property and lands right after the Mad King's War ended."
"Well, someone must be living here, the place is spotless", Titania pointed out. "By law, there shouldn't be anyone here. I wonder if someone is squatting."
Rafiel was sitting at a window, looking out at the wet, dripping world. The news about Maian had been unexpected, though not terribly surprising in hindsight. Soren's visceral reaction – and thoughts – had revealed that he, too, was one of the parentless – or hybrids, as Maian apparently called them.
And Micaiah? I always had the same feeling whenever I was with any of those two…
Nailah appeared seemingly out of nowhere.
"Is something wrong, Rafiel?"
"I was just thinking. But – I feel we are being watched. I sense no malice, but there is definitely some sort of presence. Perhaps the master of this house?"
Nailah tilted her head to one side. "I bet we'll find out soon."
As Ike made his round to check on everyone, he met Volug. The wolf just stood there, facing him, without saying a word.
"Er. Hello. What can I do for you?"
Volug still didn't say anything, but he held out a small bottle.
"Hey, that's an elixir."
Volug nodded, smiling excitedly.
"Yes, I like them, too. They come in handy during battles."
Nailah joined them and spoke to Volug, using the Ancient Tongue. Volug replied in the same manner.
Ike just stood there, confused, because he couldn't understand anything of what they were saying.
"I'm sorry, I don't mean to leave you out of the conversation", Nailah said apologetically.
"No, that's fine. I would have been confused either way, I didn't know you could speak the Ancient Language."
"It's the common language of Hatary. I wouldn't have known about the Tellius Language, hadn't I met Rafiel."
"The Tellius Language?", Ike asked, amused.
"You don't know? The language you're using is called the Tellius Language. You call it Modern Tongue, if I'm not mistaken."
"Oh, I see."
"Long ago, beorc created the Old Tongue, or Ancient Speech. The language was too difficult for most laguz to master, so the Modern Tongue was created in its place."
"Huh. I've never heard that story before. The only people I'm aware of who know the Ancient Tongue are the heron laguz. I think Nasir of Goldoa said he could read it. Among the beorc, only mages use it, and just for spells. And, well, then there's Maian. Where did she learn how to speak it, I wonder?"
"Well, the laguz who live for a long time, like the herons and dragons, have all the time in the world to learn it. And since Senator Maian is heron-blooded, that might be true for her as well. Beorc probably left the Ancient Speech behind in favour of a newer and more improved language, with the exception of spells."
"That makes sense. Mordecai, a Gallian warrior, once told me that 'words many understand' let you avoid fighting when it's not a good idea. He said that's why it's good to know many languages."
"Did he, now? Volug, did you hear that? You can learn the Language of Tellius along with Mordecai."
"I will... I... will try", Volug replied.
He strongly reminded Ike of Leanne, and he smiled at the comparison.
"He understands what you're saying for the most part. It's the speaking that's hard for him", Nailah explained.
"You don't need to feel obligated. I mean, it's not like I can understand the Ancient Tongue."
Volug started speaking in the Old Tongue, then, he switched to the modern one.
"Um... here... Take."
He held out the elixir.
"Oh, I understand. Thanks", Ike replied.
Volug smiled and said something in the Ancient Tongue.
"I think I understood that. You were happy that I understood what you just said."
Volug smiled as he replied.
Nailah nodded to herself. "Good. As long as you have the desire to learn, words will soon follow."
"I see", Ike said. "I'll try to learn a little Ancient Speech from now on, too. Volug, you be my teacher, and I'll be your teacher."
Volug nodded, still smiling.
If the life of a mercenary had taught Ike one thing, it was that peace didn't last long. Soon enough, Nailah came to rouse them.
"The Disciples of Order are attacking! They just appeared in the outer building."
"All right, let's get everyone mobilised - ", Ike began.
"General, come quickly", Rafiel interjected. "Our friends are in trouble!"
"Friends? Who?"
They followed Rafiel to find Tormod, Muarim and Vika, who had been surrounded by the Disciples.
"Extinguish them!", one of the Disciples shouted.
"Funny you should phrase it that way, you soon-to-be cinder!", Tormod replied, conjuring an enormous fireball out of thin air.
But to Tormod's apparent dismay, it didn't quite go the way he had intended it to.
"What the – that should've worked better! Just who are they?!"
"Tormod, your backup is here!", Ike shouted. "Just hold your position!"
"Much appreciated! Don't worry, we're not going anywhere! Wait a second – Ike? What happened to you, musclehead?"
"It's definitely Sir Ike", Muarim said. "Beorc growth always amazes me. He looks like a completely different person."
Tormod rolled his eyes. "Between him and Sothe I'm starting to feel a little inadequate! Well, that settles it! I've still got a lot of growing to do, so I've got to survive! I can't die like this!"
Ike and the others charged in and joined their friends. Together, they started to fight their way across the manor to where they assumed their leader was.
Hetzel turned to the bishop who would lead their army in this battle.
"Oliver, Duke of Tanas, have a care. The last time you faced these enemies, you were defeated, humiliated, and your heron slave trade was exposed. By the good graces of your fellow senators, you were saved from death and hidden away here. Behind the backs of the Apostle and the Prime Minister, we have kept you safe. Do not fail us."
"I understand, Senator Hetzel. Rest assured, the savages who dare to set foot in my house a second time shall be eradicated for the glory of our Goddess! Ugly creatures deserve nothing but an ugly death! You will not regret the lovely mercy you've shown me."
Hetzel gave him a brief nod, and warped back to Sienne.
Ike was rather surprised when he recognised Oliver. After all, he had thought Tibarn had killed that man three years ago.
Another rising from the dead, eh?
The Greil Army didn't really have much trouble with Oliver's men, and quickly advanced on him. But then something happened no-one had anticipated.
Oliver spotted Rafiel, who was walking behind the vanguard, and rushed toward him.
"Ooohhh... you truly are a banquet for the eyes as well as the... spirit. I am quite overcome!"
"Unhand me!", Rafiel shouted.
"But how is it that anyone could risk a precious treasure like you in battle? What if something marred you?"
"What are you talking about?", Rafiel asked, confused.
"Don't worry, my pretty bird, I will save you. You need someone who can give you loving protection. Someone... like me."
"What?"
"I'll take you away from those savages! I would never let them lay a single finger on you, my precious! No, no... those cretins mustn't ruffle a single feather... I'll have to kill them! Come, come to daddy!"
Rafiel backed away. Growling, Nailah stepped in between.
"Hey, what are you doing?!", Ike shouted as Oliver started attacking his own men.
"If that beauty does not want to follow me, then I have to follow him – as the protector of all that is beautiful!"
"Wha – would you mind rejoining the enemy?"
Oliver ignored him. Ike had to admit that he was powerful – besides, he had caught all of his soldiers off guard. It didn't take them long to end this fight.
"Well, another storm weathered", Ike said, sheathing Ragnell. "It's late. Everyone, try to get some sleep and be ready for tomorrow."
"Ike, what about him?", Soren said, jerking his head in Oliver's direction.
"Well, I can't say I'm exactly happy about this, but if he wants to help us fight the Disciples, I see no reason to stop him. Besides, there's no-one from Begnion with us, and none of us have the right to judge him – killing him would probably be murder."
"That's a sensible statement. Let's leave punishing him to the Apostle."
"We should still supervise him", Titania cautioned. "And don't leave him alone with Rafiel. That display earlier – it was deeply unsettling."
Oliver immediately protested his innocence, but Ike agreed with Titania. He ordered Boyd and Oscar to take him away.
There was a flash of red light, and a senator appeared out of thin air. Ike remembered him as a member of the Council of Seven – Senator Hetzel, Duke of Asmin.
The old man looked around miserably.
"Wiped out... not a single man left standing. This must be the will of the Goddess..."
Rafiel gasped. "You! You are - "
Hetzel glanced in his direction.
"Rafiel? How – you are still alive!" A smile spread across his face. "I'm so glad you are safe!"
He took a step toward him. Nailah and Ike rushed forward to shield Rafiel.
"I have nothing to say to you", the prince replied coolly.
"So, you know, then. What we did was unforgivable... I was against it from the very beginning! I argued with the others time and again! Ah, what's the use... it doesn't matter what I say now. Rafiel... Despite everything, I am very happy to see that you are alive. But I beg of you – stay away from the capital! You must not anger the Goddess!"
With that, he disappeared in another red flash.
"How comes you know a Begnion senator, Rafiel?", Ike asked with a frown.
Rafiel closed his eyes and took a deep breath. "I owe my life to him."
"What?!"
"Ike, I'm sorry, but can we talk later?", Nailah interjected. "Rafiel needs to rest."
"Yes, of course."
As soon as they had finished throwing out the corpses and cleaning the manor as best as they could, Ike and Nailah went to see Tormod and his friends.
"So, why are you guys here, anyway?"
"You won't believe me, but it came to me in a dream", Tormod replied.
"A dream?"
"Yeah. Shortly after that light turned everyone to stone, I had a really strange dream. I don't remember it very well, but it was like there was a voice in my head, whispering encouragement. When I woke up, I knew what I had to do. I knew that everyone who hadn't been petrified was heading toward the Tower of Guidance, and that from there, we'd all be saved."
"I had the same dream", Muarim added. "I thought it had to be some kind of divine revelation, so we left the desert to head for the tower."
"Sounds like more of Yune's handiwork", Ike mused.
"Agreed", Nailah said. "This is her way of gathering able bodies. I suppose a Goddess of Chaos will do things her own way..."
"Yune? Isn't that the dark goddess I keep hearing about? Should I even listen to her?", Tormod asked.
"I can't really put it into words, but I can feel it inside. Listening to her is the right thing to do", Ike replied. "I guess it's a lot like the dream you described."
"We laguz are pretty intuitive", Nailah added. "I feel it in my blood that Yune is the goddess of our ancestors."
"All right. That makes it a little easier to come to grips with", Tormod said, smiling.
After Rafiel had recovered, Ike went to talk to him.
"Are you feeling any better?"
"Yes, much. Sorry if I worried you... that was quite a shock."
"No problem... can we talk about it? I'd like to know about you and that man..."
"Yes, Hetzel... it was some time ago now, a little while before the Serenes Massacre. I was alone outside the forest, where I was found and captured by beorc slave traders. The slavers sold me at an auction, and the winner was Lord Hetzel. I didn't know until later, but the bidding for me amongst the senators was extremely competitive."
"No surprise", Ike muttered. "Crazy bastards, the whole lot of them..."
"Lord Hetzel actually spent much of his fortune on my purchase", Rafiel went on. "After he took me home, I fell deathly ill, mostly just from desperation. Lord Hetzel was deeply moved by my plight... He brought me to a temple and spent many days nursing me back to health. I have no doubt that he saved my life, but my wings never fully recovered. I haven't been able to fly since. Lord Hetzel felt terrible... Do you know what he told me? He said, 'Once you fully recover, you can return to the forest.' Since we herons can look into people's souls, I knew what he told me was the truth. He was being absolutely honest. I knew I could trust him from that moment on.
"Then... the Serenes Massacre. I didn't need to be told. I would have felt the suffering of that many of my brethren from everywhere in the world. Lord Hetzel never said anything, but I knew from his thoughts that the senators had murdered the apostle, and blamed my clan. Because of the monstrous ambitions of a handful of evil men, my entire race was burned to ash."
There was bitterness in his voice.
"Rafiel…"
"Late that night, I returned to the temple. Something happened to me then... some sort of force took hold of me... The next thing I knew... I was lying in the sand. If Queen Nailah hadn't found me, I would have died right there. I didn't even realise how far I was from my dear home..."
"So, Duke Asmin is both your saviour and your enemy..."
"Hetzel was not directly involved, nor did he give orders to those who were. Something about him still troubles me, though... whenever I think about him, I feel chaos boiling up from his heart... I sense the same feeling welling up inside me, too. I suppose that's why I can accept it in him."
"Your people, the remaining heron tribe, they've also changed. King Tibarn said many times that Reyson and Leanne are far from typical herons."
"Yes, I was surprised when we met again. They are both so strong, and vitality seems to shine forth from within them."
"It makes you wonder if chaos is really all bad, doesn't it?"
"I am starting to think that the world needs a balance between order and chaos. What do you think?"
"I don't know. I think there are some things we aren't meant to understand."
A/N:
The first scene in this chapter is a recent addition – I figured we should see Ike's companions react to the news about Maian a bit more than Rafiel musing about it by a window. Especially since I've been developing a friendship between Soren and Maian. Timeline-wise, that first scene takes place around the same time as the first scene in Distortions. It would make sense for Reyson to inform both Leanne and Rafiel ASAP, after all.
I also added a line later in the chapter where I had Titania comment on Oliver's behaviour, which is creepy AF. I wouldn't let someone like that anywhere near my friends.